MISSY CONFIDENTIAL
Design, Décor and Dani Wales
The Block star’s budget decorating tips

Jessica-Anne Lyons

May 30, 2014 09:17
by Jessica-Anne Lyons

From showing off her design chops on national television to creating serious living-space lust with her online magazine, The Home Journal, The Block’s Dani Wales has certainly been one busy bee. We catch up with her to get a behind-the-scenes look at her design process, get her top home tips and check out some of her current faves when it comes to décor.

Where do you find most of your décor pieces?

I see so many amazing products through The Home Journal and I honestly want them all! I’m a bit of a linen nut. My most recent linen purchase was from a grey duvet set from H&M. So cheap and so cosy!

What’s one decorating rule that ought to be thrown out the window?

This isn’t really a design rule, but I get really bugged when people make silly impulse purchases and buy cheap and nasty furniture. I believe in spending a bit more money on a few key items that’ll last a lifetime.

What are three tips for decorating on a budget?

1. Don’t impulse buy, because you will often end up spending more.
2. Think about how you live and move within the space and decorate accordingly.
3. Try your hand at restoring or repurposing older items. Simply painting or adding new handles to furniture can bring them back to life.

How do you make a small space appear bigger?

First, de-clutter the space and try to get rid of anything you haven’t used in a year. Consider purchasing a sofa or armchair that’s raised on legs. This helps to create a sense of light and space. Use light and neutral colours in your paint and furnishings to make the space appear larger and lighter and invest in an oversized mirror to make the room feel more open and bright. Also, leave some shelves empty to add to the spacious feel.

What are your favourite home blogs to look at?  

My online magazine The Home Journal, as well as Dezeen, Remodelista, Design Milk, The Design Files and Design Hunter.

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